Solving Quadratic Equations by Factoring; How anyone can learn

Solving Quadratic Equations by Factoring

Solving Quadratics

When solving quadratic equations by factoring there are many similarities in the process but also some key differences in how we factor. The different factoring techniques are applied to different types of quadratic equations. In this post we will look at how to factor using the different factoring techniques. Before we do that, lets look at what solving quadratics by factoring have in common. Below I outline the basic process you will need to solve for each

Set your quadratic equation equal to zero

Look to factor out a GCF

Choose the best factoring technique to factor your quadratic expression

Apply the zero product property to set up two separate equations

Solve and check solutions

Solving Quadratic Equations by Factoring out a GCF

We always want to look to factor out any common factors but in these types of videos we will have quadratic binomials. By factoring out the GCF we will create the product of two factors that we can then apply the zero product property to solve.

Solving Quadratic Equations by Factoring when a=1

In this video I show how to solve quadratics by factoring when a=1 using the slow method. The goal of this video is to show you the process in factoring a quadratic trinomial so that you can start being able to factor in your head.

Solving Quadratic Equations by Factoring when a is not 1

These types of quadratics are a little more advanced to factor in your head but once you have mastered the slow process you can begin to start factoring them in your head. If you are stuck you can always revert back.

Solving Quadratic Equations by Factoring using Special Factoring Techniques

Special factoring techniques allow us to factor quadratics without having to use some of the techniques discussed in this post by identifying them as difference of two squares or perfect square trinomials and then factoring them as such.